Are All Christians Disciples?

Some preachers, teachers and theologians believe Christians should be disciples. Carrying that idea forward they seem to accept that some are not disciples. I see this as creating two classes of Christians, one type being serious about their Spiritual relationship with God and the other type satisfied to just make it over the border between saved and lost. The latter type, by implication, are content to settle down on or near the starting line. I see no Scriptural support for this kind of distinction. I can see it taking some time to recognize the need for discipline and to start submitting to it. However, if one has truly come to Christ, there has to be movement toward becoming more and more disciplined. What about those who profess faith and yet have no real interest in Spiritual things? There may be some surface submission but the heart is still in the world. I suggest this is the result of superficial evangelism. How dare we promote the idea of a relationship with Jesus that doesn't necessarily have to be submissive to His leadership? We may have large numbers of people who have the label "Christian" without the content inside. Could this situation be caused by an inordinate desire for credit for many "converts?" I contest the concept that one can come to Christ with no need or obligation for change. He is Lord and we come to Him on His terms. We don't strike a bargain with Jesus and say that we want to be saved but we will not change our conduct, values and attitudes. His rule and reign in our lives is to the end that we will become like Him. Anything less will not make the "cut." Selah! Let's tell potential converts that in coming to Christ they must be willing to yield to His Lordship and begin a lifelong journey of being a disciple, one under His discipline. Ron

"And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after Me, is not worthy of Me" (Matthew 10:38).

Note: Some may ask, "What about children and (so called) 'carnal' Christians?" More tomorrow, Lord willing.